DM in Odisha can now buy pvt land for social projects

District magistrates in Odisha have been provided with the authority to buy private land for social projects, according to a decision taken by urban development department, recently.

Controversial road to controversial plots

This decision was taken at an important meeting held by the housing and urban development department. There is no need for amendment in Odisha Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, this was decided in the meeting held on Tuesday.

Before this notification land acquisition was a delayed process, but after this it will be faster.

Sisir Kumar Ratho, Special Secretary, Housing and Urban development said that all revenue commissioners, district collectors, district forest officials have been notified about the development.

According to sources, the civic bodies under the Housing and Urban development, like municipalities, public health (urban), Odisha water supply and sanitation, sewerage board etc. will be directly be able to buy private land for social projects.

The area which could be brought by DM will be 50 acres in urban areas and 200 acres in rural areas of land owned by private landowners.

The concerned bodies will put up proposals for the social projects. A district compensation advisory board (DCAC) headed by the district magistrate will investigate the proposals.

The land can be used for social projects like sewerage, water supply, drainage, waste disposal, water treatment plant , bus stop and stand.